New Resort Approved

Alpine skiing

The Forest Service has approved plans for a ski area on 850 acres of Blacktail Mountain near Kalispell.

“The decision is intended to provide an area that will serve as a seasonal, family-oriented, community downhill ski area,” said Flathead National Forest supervisor Rodd Richardson.

A 45-day waiting period must pass before a federal permit for the ski project can be issued, said Steve Spencer, one of the developers. Spencer said he and his partners still must provide a financial plan and other documents, plus obtain a series of permits from the state.